Nederlandse historische bronnen 10

[p. 157]

28

Hague, 27th November 1731 NS

My Dear Lord, I delay'd thanking you for your letter of the 9th, in hopes that something or other might have occurr'd here worth informing you of, but I have been disappointed in those expectations, for Count Sinzendorf's courier is not yett return'd from Vienna, but I expect him everyday and I believe I may venture to assure you beforehand, that in a few days after his return, I shall have the pleasure of acquainting you, that everything will be sign'd and concluded, for he rather carried the last yielding struggle of the Republick, than any reall difficulty.

The newspapers send you to England for the Parliament⁸⁷. I hope it is true since I should have the pleasure of seeing you there and possibly of renewing our old acquaintance over a bottle, and a gentlewoman. A propos of gentlewomen we have one here at present of your acquaintance call'd L'Imperatrice. She is so handsome that I would have made her, a tender of my poor services; but that I was unwilling to undeceive her, of the opinion I hope she entertains, that all his Majesty's ambassador's are form'd like your Lordship. So like an honest minister, I sacrific'd my private satisfaction, to the reputation of my country.

When you happen to see the Duke of Richelieu, I begg you will make him my compliments, and tell him I hope he remembers his promise of keeping next lent in England. I am with distinguish'd truth and regard, My Dear Lord - - -

87 This report was not true, Waldegrave's proxy vote in the Lords was used on behalf of the government.